A report of wildlife sightings from the western edge of Maidstone, Kent. I note anything of interest in the vicinity of my home in Barming and from walks into work at the East Malling Research Station along the edge of Barming Woods and down to Ditton. Occasionally, when time allows, I get out to Ditton Quarry, a rich habitat hemmed in by residential and industrial developments on one side, but with open countryside on the other.

Thursday, 3 May 2007

Wednesday 2nd May

The House Martins returned to East Malling Research Station today. A pair tried a number of old nests before settling for one on the old Entomology building. It was the most intact, and with the lack of mud on site I think it was probably a wise choice.

It was pleasant walk to Ditton Quarry turned up a few Holly Blues and again lots of Chiffcaffs and Whitethroat singing but not much else - it was sunny but too windy for butterflies.

Late a trip to Samphire Hoe confirmed that there were approx 9000 Early Spider orchids flowering, although most were just on the turn. Nottingham Catchfly was also in flower. To cold and windy for butterflies, but 2x Whimbrel looking a bit forlon on one of the pools added interest.